Library Policies

General Policy

Alumnae Library strives to maintain a friendly, comfortable, and safe environment for all users. To that end, library patrons are expected to practice behavior that respects the rights of other users to study, conduct research, and carry out day-to-day work duties. Patrons are expected to adhere to broader Elms' policies, as well as relevant state and federal laws.

Patrons engaging in disruptive behavior may prevent others from effectively using their time in Alumnae Library, and can be asked to leave the building.

Solitary studying is best done in the soundproof booths on the perimeter of the second and third floors. Priority will be given to Elms College Students. The library is free for use for all patrons, except for the following areas, which may be used for group study on a first come, first serve basis if not previously reserved by faculty for class use:

The Curriculum Library

The Listening Room

The Seminar Room

The Paralegal Area

Specific Policies

Alumnae Library patron behavior expectations are as follows:

Cell phone usage is strictly prohibited in the library. All library patrons and staff are expected to, when entering the building, set cell phones, pagers, and other electronic devices to silent or vibrate mode. Patrons engaging in disruptive cell phone conversations can be asked by library staff to take the call outside.

Computers are intended primarily for academic research or to work on assignments. Patrons may use the computers to check e-mail, surf the web, social network, and the like, but a patron engaged in non-assignment or non-research oriented computer use can be asked to give up a computer to a student who needs it for research or for a class assignment. Patrons are not allowed to engage in abusive or illegal activity on computers. Any improper use or treatment of computing facilities that may result in physical damage, defacement, or destruction is not allowed. Further information on library computer use can be found in the Library Computer Policy.

Photocopiers, located on first and third floors, should be used with care and properly. Patrons who are unfamiliar with photocopier use should feel free to contact a library staff member for help. Patrons are not allowed to engage in abusive or illegal activity on photocopiers. Any improper use or treatment of our photocopiers that may result in physical damage, defacement, or destruction is not allowed. Copy cards are available for purchase from the Circulation desk, and copies are .05 per copy.

Public rest rooms are here for the convenience of all patrons. They are located on the lower level, and on the second and third floors. Patrons should strive to keep restrooms clean, in consideration of other patrons and of library staff.

Smoking is prohibited, as is the use of tobacco products, in the Alumnae Library. In consideration of all patrons, the library is a smoke-free facility.

Food or beverages are not to be consumed in the library proper (patron areas and stacks), without the permission of the Library Director. The one exception is for events held in the library.